Stalberg to get shot on Hawks' power play

Winger will set up in front of opposing goaltender to create havoc around net

January 15, 2013|By Chris Kuc, Chicago Tribune reporter

Blackhawks forward Viktor Stalberg. (Scott Strazzante/Tribune Photo)

While establishing career highs in goals and assists last season, Viktor Stalberg always coveted an opportunity to become a member of the Blackhawks' power-play unit.

It appears the winger will get his wish this season as coach JoelQuenneville has indicated Stalberg will see ice time while the Hawks have a man advantage.

"I'm looking forward to getting that opportunity," Stalberg said Tuesday after Day 3 of training camp at the United Center. "That's something I looked for last year and it didn't happen. I was frustrated at that at times. It's up to me if I get the chance to prove that I deserve (it) and I'm going to do everything I can to make a difference there."

Stalberg already has some momentum working on the power play after seeing time there in both Sweden and Russia while playing overseas during the NHL lockout. In the KHL, Stalberg played more along the half-wall while in the Swedish Elite League he was stationed in front of the net. Stalberg will find himself in the latter spot while the Hawks try to turn around a power play that has struggled in recent seasons.

"One thing is to get in front of the net and be that guy who is disturbing (goaltenders) and creating some traffic and havoc," Stalberg said. "That's something I want to get better at and (also) tipping pucks."

Broadcast news: The Hawks announced their TV schedule for the season, with seven games appearing on NBC or NBC Sports Network, 39 on CSN and two on WGN-Ch. 9.

Meanwhile, the team and WGN-AM 720 announced they have agreed on a five-year broadcast extension. The agreement will run through the conclusion of the 2018-19 NHL season.

"(We) have forged a special relationship since the partnership began in 2008 and we are proud and honored to be able grow that even further," Hawks President and CEO John McDonough said in a statement. "WGN Radio has broadcasted countless memories and hallmark moments for our organization and fans over the past few years and we are excited for what the future holds."

Camp talk: After practicing at Johnny's IceHouse West the first two days of camp, the Hawks returned Tuesday to the arena they call home. They have settled into their United Center home dressing room for the remainder of camp. They head to Los Angeles at the end of the week, where they will face the defending Stanley Cup champion Kings on Saturday afternoon.

"(Tuesday) was a lot of work," Quenneville said. "We we got to scrimmage a little bit. They had some tough battle drills so it was a workmanlike-type day. Every day picks up the intensity."

Forward Jimmy Hayes joined the group after being recalled from Rockford of the AHL on Monday. Marcus Kruger was still off the ice with the flu, but Quenneville said the center worked out and will be back in action Wednesday.

Quenneville also said the team will have a simulated game day Wednesday, including a morning skate during which the team will work on the power play and penalty kill and then a controlled scrimmage at night. Seven players will be recalled from Rockford of the AHL to help fill out the rosters for the scrimmage.

Defenseman Steve Montador was at the United Center on Tuesday but not on the ice as he continues his recovery from symptoms related to a concussion.